A
controversial draft bill called Protection of Children
from Sexual Offences has just been cleared by the
Cabinet. It raises the age of consent from 16 to 18
and has criminalized all kinds of sexual activities
with minors. Punishment for such offences ranges from
3 years to lifetime imprisonment depending on the
severity of the crime. The Good citizens of the country
have risen up in arms against this bill fearing that
youngsters curious about their sexuality will be unnecessarily
persecuted and prosecuted while others feel the bill
is necessary to protect minors from pedophiles and
other sexual predators.

While the debate rages on, let us take a look at some
of the underage romances seen in Tamil films. Most
have been controversial while others have won plaudits
for the sensitive handling of a touchy subject.

Developed
by : Anuja ; Designed by : Murugan

Kadhal

Balaji Shakthivel’s
Kadhal is considered a classic for the beautiful
and tragic portrayal of a teenage romance.
The couple had many factors working against
them starting from their families, social
backgrounds, and age. Yet when they were together
their love felt right. It was criticized for
adversely influencing impressionable minds
and encouraging them to run away from their
homes with foolhardy ideas of romance.